GOOD MORNING FROM ELITE AGENT

AI-driven search tools are reshaping how buyers and sellers find real estate agents, scanning reviews, sales data, expertise, and even commission rates. Instead of just Googling "best agent near me," clients may soon ask AI to research and rank agents based on real performance. To stay ahead, agents need to keep their sales data updated, showcase their expertise, and ensure key information is easily accessible. Your online presence is now your digital reputation, so here’s a breakdown that will help you understand what's happening on the AI SEO front.

Today’s read time: 5 minutes, 27 seconds.

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DESIGN

Why office design impacts productivity and recruitment

Office design is more than just aesthetics, it plays a direct role in productivity, employee well-being, and staff retention.

With a Dell study revealing that 73% of office workers would consider leaving their company if the environment didn’t inspire them, it’s no wonder real estate agencies are stepping up their game. Companies like BresicWhitney are investing in architecturally thoughtful workspaces to boost performance, while Ray White research suggests that refurbishing secondary office spaces is becoming a smart investment.

Recruitment and retention: why design matters for talent
A well-designed office isn't just a workspace - it’s a tool for attracting and retaining top talent. Thomas McGlynn, BresicWhitney’s CEO, says their investment in unique, inspiring workspaces has been a key driver of staff engagement. "Our people spend the majority of their working hours in-office, by choice, and we know the design of our spaces has been a key factor in this.”

Beyond aesthetics, the offices are designed for both productivity and social interaction. "Our meeting rooms, bump zones, and kitchen breakout areas all play a role in encouraging team interaction, collaboration, and creativity," he says. "In addition to specific areas, our art and furniture collection aim to add a more nuanced offering of spaces where the team can meet and exchange ideas in a less formalised setting.”

The future of office spaces
With hybrid work now the norm, businesses are reconsidering how to make office spaces more inviting, functional, and cost-effective. Ray White’s Head of Research, Vanessa Rader, sees a shift towards refurbishing well-located secondary office spaces rather than building new ones.

"Affordability is increasingly driving occupier decisions, with many businesses prioritising cost-effective solutions over premium specifications," she explains.

Existing beats new
Refurbishing existing structures is proving to be a more viable and sustainable option, particularly as construction costs rise. "Older buildings with ‘good bones’ in optimal locations are increasingly being targeted for renovation," Vanessa says. "This dynamic, combined with the substantial economic rents needed to justify new development, continues to favour strategic refurbishment over new construction for many owners - a trend similarly observed in the US market."

Read the full story here.

ICYMI, we discussed why real success starts with accountability.

TOGETHER WITH VIEW.COM.AU

View.com.au has appointed Simon Cohen, renowned real estate professional and star of Luxe Listings Sydney, as its Property Expert and ambassador.

Simon, the founder of Cohen Handler, Australia’s largest residential buyer’s agency, will provide expert insights, market analysis, and exclusive content across View.com.au, Seven West Media, and ACM publications. His expertise will help buyers, sellers, and agents navigate the market with confidence. "As someone who lives and breathes real estate, I’m excited to partner with view.com.au to help Australians make smarter property decisions," said Simon.

View Media Group Chairman Antony Catalano called Simon "one of the most trusted voices in Australian real estate".

“His expertise, credibility, and deep industry connections align perfectly with our mission to empower Australians with the best property insights and provide a complete view of the property market.” More here.

SMART SNIPPETS

Foreign buyers locked out of existing homes
Australia is set to ban foreign investors from purchasing existing homes for two years starting April 2025. The move comes as part of Labor's broader housing affordability agenda, though foreign buyers accounted for just 5,360 residential purchases last year. While new builds remain exempt, the government is backing the ban with $1.4 million annually for enforcement through the Tax Office.

Regional markets buck the trend
While capital cities struggle with falling prices, Australia's regional property markets are showing surprising strength. Regional dwelling values grew by 1% last quarter, while capital cities declined by 0.7%. The price gap between regional and capital properties has increased to $240,000, as remote work continues to drive a lifestyle-led shift away from major cities.

New Orleans continues rebuilding decades after Hurricane Katrina
Nearly 20 years after Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans is still repairing homes and reinforcing flood protection systems following the storm that caused US$201.3 billion in damages, killed over 1,800 people, and displaced millions. The city’s recovery has been slow, with housing shortages, rising property values, and lingering economic struggles impacting residents.

CELEBRITY HOMES

Britney Spears’ former Beverly Hills mansion listed for $12.2M
Britney Spears’ former Beverly Hills estate is back on the market for $8 million (AUD $12.2 million). The 7,500-square-foot home features a soundproof music studio, resort-style pool, and sleek designer interiors. Nestled in the exclusive gated Summit community, it’s being touted as a rare opportunity to own a slice of pop history.

SOUNDWAVES

Why shorter meetings can boost your real estate business

Long, unstructured (often boring) meetings can drain productivity, but shorter, more focused meetings lead to better decision-making and improved efficiency. This curated listen lets agents know why setting clear agendas, limiting attendees, and prioritising action over discussion will maximise valuable time.

Dive straight into the listen below or the deeper dive here

Read the article from Link Advisors here

AGENTS ON SOCIAL

At open homes: polished, poised, and power-dressed. At home: curlers in, coffee stains on, writing contracts in pyjamas. Because professionalism has its limits… and they stop at the front door. 🧳🚪

Seen an Agent On Social we should include? Let us know here (email link)

Wishing you a productive day

Elite Agent is crewed by Mark Edwards, Catherine Nikas-Boulos, Rowan Crosby, Charmagne Arrubio and Samantha McLean. We aim to uplift the real estate industry by delivering forward-thinking, hype-free news and education that fosters knowledge and fuels ambition.

Stories marked with * are sponsored, including 'Together With' and the weekday 'Movers & Shakers' sections. Interested in promoting your brand to Elite Agent’s audience? Learn more at eliteagent.com/advertise.

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